This dark galley kitchen was transformed into a warm and bright space

This article highlights the transformation of a previously dark and disconnected kitchen into a spacious, light, and open room, as showcased during the ASID Designer Kitchen Tour. Interior designer Kate Roos spearheaded this significant remodel, noting the dramatic increase in light and usable space. Before the renovation, the kitchen featured a cramped layout with the sink, fridge, and range confined to a single wall, offering limited counter space. The updated design now provides ample room for multiple individuals to work simultaneously. A key design element in the redesigned kitchen is the tile from Winchester Tile Co., chosen by the clients for its light-reflecting qualities. Unlike flat glazed tiles, these tiles offer a unique effect, and their square shape was installed in a classic subway tile pattern. The selection of a honed marble countertop created a visual contrast with the glossy backsplash tiles. Extensive discussions between the designer and clients led to the choice of a specific shade of gray for the cabinetry, carefully selected to be warm and bright, avoiding the coldness often associated with some gray tones. The cast bronze hardware, with its living finish, was an intuitive choice, seamlessly integrating with the home’s existing hardware. An unexpected yet impactful addition to the design was a standalone oak hutch, incorporated later in the process. Crafted from quartersawn white oak, the hutch complements the character of the original turn-of-the-century Victorian-era home. A gray stain was applied to prevent the piece from appearing too heavy within the newly brightened space. Designer Kate Roos emphasizes that her design inspiration often comes directly from client wishes and the existing elements of a home, such as colorful cookware or views from a window. For homeowners seeking to define their design style, Roos typically starts by discussing the home's architectural style, then explores how to blend that with the client's preferences without creating a discordant look. She recommends under-cabinet lighting as a single, impactful change for homeowners looking to refresh their kitchen without a full overhaul, highlighting its transformative effect on both aesthetics and functionality. Roos also advocates for incorporating cabinetry that resembles freestanding furniture, as it adds character, allows for unique details and colors, and creates a focal point. For those intimidated by hiring a professional, Roos assures that a good designer can guide clients through the decision-making process, connect them with skilled craftspeople, and help avoid costly mistakes, ensuring a timeless and functional space that aligns with the home’s architecture. The ultimate goal is to translate the client's vision into a cherished space. #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KateRoosDesign #ASIDDesignerKitchenTour #KitchenLighting #CabinetryDesign #VictorianHome

This article highlights four regional architects who renovated five outdated kitchens in Pittsburgh, transforming them from functional spaces into designer areas. The architectural projects emphasize improved layouts, increased natural light, and enhanced aesthetics, focusing on the kitchen as the central hub of the home. Architect Mary Cerrone undertook two kitchen renovations. In Squirrel Hill, a 320-square-foot kitchen and deck addition aimed to improve the home's functional layout and views. The design incorporated durable materials such as linoleum over radiant floor heat, stainless steel, engineered stone countertops, stained maple cabinets, and porcelain tiles. A new deck connected to the kitchen expanded views and natural light. Cerrone maximized space by combining the kitchen with a small pantry, building out over the basement stair for a recessed refrigerator, and using a sliding screen door to eliminate door swings. In Upper Saint Clair, Cerrone transformed a 1,000-square-foot first-floor kitchen from a builder-style design into a streamlined, contemporary space. This involved redefining connections between the kitchen, eating area, laundry, and family room by adding windows and reorienting the kitchen workspace. The project featured end-matched walnut cabinets, aluminum and glass elements, Cambria countertops, and cork flooring. Storage was maximized by trading wall cabinet space for windows and installing an 8-foot length of full-height cabinets. The formal dining room was converted to a living room, and a generous eat-in area was created to accommodate twelve people. Fred M. Fargotstein focused on renovating a 1920s Pittsburgh home, changing its 1970s modern kitchen to a traditional style that aligned with the house's overall character. The renovation increased the kitchen size by 36 square feet by removing a servants’ stair. A colorful cast iron English import range became a focal point, featuring five commercial-style burners, two convection ovens, and a separate broiling compartment. Fargotstein improved efficiency by eliminating the problematic servants’ stair traffic pattern, creating a contiguous countertop work area, and ensuring the dishwasher did not obstruct access. A separate, fully functional work zone was incorporated in the pantry, complete with a prep sink and hot beverage station. Storage capacity was significantly increased by extending wall cabinets to the ceiling and incorporating glass doors for a sense of openness. Custom modifications included specialized storage for cookbooks and a nook for pet food bowls. Paul J. Levine revamped his own 1920s French Tudor home's kitchen in Point Breeze. His goals included aligning the kitchen with the home’s style, complementing existing Mexican Saltillo tile floors, increasing home value, and creating an eco-friendly space. The small kitchen, measuring 8 by 15 feet, was designed in a Craftsman style. He maximized island cabinet space and countertop surface for a bar-type eating area, using frameless cabinet construction to enhance interior space. Custom features included extending wall cabinets to the ceiling, using drawers instead of roll-out shelves, and a specific drawer for flatware. Levine self-performed the construction, using low VOC paint, water-saving fixtures, and Energy Star-rated appliances. He replaced a drafty back door with an energy-efficient wood door and restored a transom window. Gerald Lee Morosco led a kitchen remodel in Shadyside as part of a rehabilitation of a Dutch Colonial-style home. The existing kitchen, remodeled in the 1980s, lacked historical details. Morosco’s design aimed to reintegrate functionality with the home’s classic style. The kitchen was arranged into functional areas: a primary cooking area with a range and island, a cleanup area with dual dishwashers, a pantry with storage for a freezer and wine cabinet, and a breakfast space. Cabinet and drawer contents were meticulously planned for efficiency, with pull-out trays for pots and pans, and individual bins for garbage and recyclables. The island's non-working side included pull-up stools for guests, allowing them to engage without obstructing the cooking process. #KitchenRenovation #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #SustainableDesign #FunctionalKitchens #PittsburghHomes #HomeImprovements

The article details a kitchen renovation project led by designer Harmony Grogan, which transformed a previously dark and bland beige kitchen into a brighter, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing space. The original kitchen was characterized by its outdated beige cabinets and a less-than-optimal layout that didn't fully utilize the space. The homeowner sought a significant update to create a more open and inviting atmosphere that also provided modern amenities and a unique design. Grogan's vision for the renovation was to blend modern functionality with vintage charm. A key aspect of this transformation was the strategic use of color. The cabinetry was painted with Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nose (1678), a soft and airy blue, while the trim received a fresh coat of Early Morning (CC-818), a light shade that complements the blue. These color choices were deliberately selected to align with the home's existing mint-green and blue exterior, ensuring a cohesive look that also resonated with the neighborhood's older bungalows and their colorful aesthetic. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation significantly improved the kitchen's functionality and layout. The design team maximized the use of a narrow 10.5-foot-wide space by consolidating all essential kitchen elements onto a single wall. This included installing custom cabinetry that provided ample storage while maintaining a streamlined appearance. The space was further enhanced with scaled-down Miele appliances, which are both efficient and space-saving. Notable appliances included a 24-inch cooktop, an 18-inch paneled dishwasher, and a 24-inch refrigerator. The backsplash was updated with glossy white tiles, contributing to the bright and clean feel of the kitchen, and Schoolhouse light fixtures in a marigold hue were added, injecting a touch of warmth and vintage appeal. A significant change in the layout involved the conversion of a previously underutilized corner, which housed a dresser, into a functional and comfortable area. This corner was reimagined to accommodate a custom 5-by-4-foot banquette, providing a cozy dining or seating nook within the kitchen itself. To prevent the space from feeling enclosed, Grogan opted for open shelving instead of traditional upper cabinetry. This choice not only contributed to an open and airy feel but also allowed for decorative displays and easy access to frequently used items. The open shelving design included connecting elements, which added to the visual continuity and modern aesthetic of the kitchen. The renovation project also paid close attention to the smaller details, extending beyond just the fixed elements of the kitchen. Harmony Grogan emphasized a comprehensive approach, specifying everything from the plates and cutlery to the artwork on the walls. This meticulous attention to detail ensured that the entire kitchen, including its accessories, contributed to the overall desired aesthetic and functionality. The successful transformation resulted in a kitchen that is not only brighter and more modern but also maintains a unique character that fits seamlessly with the home and its surroundings. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeImprovement #KitchenMakeover #HarmonyGrogan #BlueKitchen #HomeDecor #ApplianceUpgrade

Harmony Grogan, a kitchen designer, undertook a transformative renovation of a client's kitchen, which was previously described as "dark, bland," and "beige." The client desired a space that blended modern functionality with vintage charm. The existing kitchen suffered from poor lighting, with light fixtures positioned inadequately, creating shadows. The layout was also inefficient, featuring a large, dated beige island that dominated the space, preventing proper workflow and making the kitchen feel cramped despite its size. Additionally, the kitchen lacked storage solutions, leading to clutter on countertops. The original design included heavy, dark wood cabinetry and a limited color palette, contributing to a dim and uninviting atmosphere. The design also incorporated a built-in pantry that was aesthetically unappealing and not fully utilized. The renovation began with addressing the lighting and structural issues. Recessed ceiling lights were installed to provide ample ambient illumination, replacing the previous inadequate fixtures. The large, cumbersome island was removed to open up the floor plan and improve flow. To enhance storage and visual appeal, a new custom island was introduced, featuring both open and closed shelving. This new island, with a marble top, serves as a focal point and offers increased functionality without overwhelming the space. The outdated pantry was replaced with a more streamlined and aesthetically integrated storage solution. The aesthetic transformation involved a strategic use of color and materials. The old, dark beige cabinetry was replaced with custom cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nose (1678), a serene blue shade that brightens the room and introduces a fresh, modern feel. The trim was painted in Early Morning (CC-818), a complementary shade that aligns with the home’s existing mint-green and blue exterior, maintaining a cohesive architectural style within the neighborhood of older bungalows. The flooring, previously a dark and uninspiring material, was updated to a lighter, more reflective surface, further contributing to the kitchen's brighter ambiance. The layout was optimized by consolidating essential kitchen functions onto a single 10.5-foot-wide wall. This efficient design includes custom cabinetry and scaled-down Miele appliances, such as a 24-inch cooktop, an 18-inch paneled dishwasher, and a 24-inch refrigerator, maximizing space without sacrificing utility. Glossy white backsplash tiles were installed to reflect light and add a clean, modern touch. Schoolhouse light fixtures in a marigold hue were chosen to provide both task lighting and a vintage-inspired decorative element, contributing to the desired mix of modern and classic styles. A custom 5-by-4-foot banquette replaced a former dresser in the corner, offering a comfortable and integrated dining area. Instead of traditional upper cabinetry, which Harmony believed would visually close off the space, open shelving was implemented. This choice maintains an airy feel and allows for decorative display, with connecting elements to ensure a cohesive look. The renovation extended to the smallest details, with Harmony specifying everything from plates and cutlery to the artwork, ensuring a complete and harmonious design. The overall transformation resulted in a significantly brighter, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing kitchen that perfectly balances modern needs with vintage charm. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeImprovement #KitchenDesign #BlueNose #CustomCabinetry #OpenShelving #VintageCharm

Rebecca and Neel Jhaveri, owners of a 100-year-old gambrel house in Lowell, sought to transform their cramped and inefficient kitchen into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. With a five-year-old and a baby, the kitchen endured constant use, highlighting the need for a renovation that prioritized both utility and character. Their existing kitchen suffered from a tight layout, with workspaces that caused congestion and insufficient storage, further exacerbated by a peninsula that made the room feel confined. To address these challenges, the Jhaveris enlisted Kelley Elizabeth Antonuccio, principal of Kelley Elizabeth Interiors, whose expertise includes comprehensive interior design and specialized training in kitchen and bath design, particularly cabinetry. Collaborating with Imperial Builders, Antonuccio's primary objective was to maximize every square inch of the available space, which also included a nearby powder room renovation. The initial phase of the project involved expanding the kitchen's footprint by incorporating space from a three-season mudroom and leveling its uneven floor, creating a more expansive, rectangular foundation for the new design. The renovated kitchen now features a properly seated island, accented with leather West Elm stools, which serves as a central point in the space. Despite the island cabinets being 18 inches deep, compared to a more standard 24 inches, they effectively fulfill their purpose. Strategic window reconfigurations were implemented to accommodate a new Monogram gas range and a custom vent hood adorned with a brass inlay. A key design element is the hand-painted cement tile backsplash by Walker Zanger, which was a significant stylistic choice for the homeowners, setting a bold tone for the kitchen. Rebecca Jhaveri expressed that despite the tile being a budgetary splurge, its unique character and prominent visibility from the front door made it a worthwhile investment. Custom cabinetry by Kelley Elizabeth Interiors was selected in a 'Moody Blue' finish, drawing inspiration from the backsplash's kaleidoscope pattern. This choice reflected the Jhaveris' preference for color and their desire for a design that felt current yet timeless, avoiding an overly modern aesthetic. Cherry wood was incorporated into the upper cabinets and the vent hood, providing a rich brown contrast to the navy blue and adding a layer of sophistication that complemented the age of the house. Behind the glass-fronted upper cabinets, a dishware set acquired during the couple's honeymoon in Amalfi is displayed. Functionality was also a key consideration for material selection. A leathered honed-jet-mist granite countertop was chosen for the perimeter cabinets due to its durability and ability to withstand frequent use. An apron sink, crafted from the same granite, contributed to a seamless and cohesive look. For the island, Carrera marble was chosen to introduce brightness and prevent the overall design from feeling too heavy. Honey bronze fixtures and hardware, along with gilded lotus pendants by Jamie Young, served as decorative accents, adding a vintage-inspired charm that seamlessly integrated with the home's character. The renovation significantly improved the kitchen's functionality, with Rebecca highlighting the new 36-inch range, capable of accommodating four full-size pans, and the regular use of the double ovens. Antonuccio also designed a dedicated appliance hutch with retractable doors to neatly house a coffee station, microwave, air fryer, and smoothie blender, alongside a shallow nine-inch pantry next to the refrigerator. The adjacent powder room was transformed with bold wallpaper by York, featuring a ginkgo-gold metallic print on a black background, complementing the kitchen's vibrant backsplash. A pistachio-green vanity was introduced to balance the assertive wallpaper, while the ceiling, trim, and baseboards were painted black to create a seamless, expansive feel in the small space. The Jhaveris expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, noting that Antonuccio successfully translated their ideas into a cohesive and enhanced design that exceeded their expectations. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #LowellHome #CustomCabinetry #BoldKitchenDesign #HistoricHomeRenovation #FunctionalDesign #DesignClientProcess